UN warns of escalating conflict in Yemen amid humanitarian crisis and regional tensions

The crisis in Yemen, which worsened in 2014 after Houthi rebels (officially known as Ansar Allah) seized the capital, has been marked by complex political and military tensions. More than 18 million people – half the country’s population – remain dependent on humanitarian aid and protection.

Hans Grundberg, United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen, speak female Security Council that while violence remains lower than pre-2022 ceasefire levels, clashes in areas such as Hudaydah and Ta’iz continue to claim lives.

“The current situation is a stark reminder that the threat of a return to all-out war remains ever-present.“, he warned.

Regional tensions continue

Mr. Grundberg noted that regional tensions from the war in Gaza continue to complicate the crisis in Yemen.

Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea continue, threatening regional stability and international maritime security. In response, the United States and the United Kingdom continue to strike military targets inside Yemen.

“I reiterate my concern about this escalatory trajectory and call on all parties to put Yemen first and prioritize resolving the conflict in Yemen.“, he said.

Mr Grundberg stressed that the recent attack by Houthi forces on the Greek-flagged oil tanker MV Sounion risks causing a catastrophic oil spill, warning of an environmental disaster for Yemen and the wider region.

Committed to resolving the crisis

Efforts to resolve the crisis are ongoing, with the Special Envoy stressing the need for sustained dialogue and cooperation across conflict borders.

“Try to use the understanding of July 23 [on economic de-escalation] as a stepping stone to Depoliticize the economy and move parties from zero-sum thinking to cooperative thinking”, he said, stressing the importance of continued engagement.

He also pointed to ongoing consultations with Yemeni civil society, including women, youth and vulnerable groups, as part of broader efforts towards an inclusive peace process.

Finally, Mr. Grundberg affirmed his “firm determination” to cooperate with all parties and work towards a sustainable and comprehensive peace in Yemen.

No time to lose, save lives

Also briefing the Security Council, Joyce Msuya, Acting Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, highlighted the dire hardships facing the Yemeni people.

More than 62 percent of households across the country do not have enough food, she warned, with some areas such as Hudaydah and Ta’iz experiencing extremely severe malnutrition.

“By the end of 2024, it is estimated that more than 600,000 children in Government-controlled areas of Yemen will suffer from acute malnutrition and about 118,000 people are expected to suffer from severe acute malnutrition – up 34 percent from 2023,” she said.

“Time is of the essence if we are to avert disaster.“ .

Challenge the response

Msuya also expressed deep concern over the continued arbitrary detention of United Nations and non-governmental organization (NGO) staff by the Houthi authorities, calling for their immediate release and respect for humanitarian law.

Thirteen UN staff were arrested in Junewith four others detained since 2021 and 2023, with no contact with their families and agencies.

She too deny the false accusations against UN aid agencies and staff, warning that such complaints jeopardize the safety and operations of humanitarian organizations working to alleviate suffering.

The senior UN aid official concluded his press conference by stressing that the humanitarian community is committed to staying and supporting Yemen – “as best we can, for as long as we can”.

“To do this, We need all parties to respect international humanitarian law – by immediately releasing our detained colleagues.protect civilians and humanitarian workers, and facilitate unhindered access to humanitarian relief.”